President's Letter

Summer 2026

 

Dear Friends,

Meister Eckhart so beautifully reminds us all that in some moments of life, “… Suddenly you know: it’s time to start something new and trust the magic of beginnings.” It is a gift to greet you at the beginning of my first year of service as Notre Dame’s President - though it is my second chapter at Notre Dame. I began my teaching career on W. 13th Street almost 25 years ago. My time here transformed me forever, just as it transforms the young women in our care.

In our classrooms, girls take the lead, always - with creativity, compassion, and in partnership with our phenomenal teachers. Our spiritual founder, Anne de Xainctonge, pioneered educational equity for young women in France in the late 16th Century. She saw Jesuits educating young men through the arts and sciences, grounded in faith, integrity, and curiosity - and Anne created the same opportunities for girls. At Notre Dame, we invoke Anne’s example and we live out her legacy each day.

 

I fell in love with all-girls education on my third day teaching at Notre Dame, the moment one of my seniors asked me an extra clever question about supply and demand in my Economics class. In a flash of insight, I thought, “I can answer this question entirely differently without boys around.” Putting girls at the center of our teaching and creating collaborative environments where all voices are valued is where Notre Dame shines. In doing our good work, we help our students shine. 

 

At Notre Dame you’ll find students who find their place and who cultivate a sisterhood amongst themselves and a community with their teachers. You’ll find dynamic lessons and lots of laughter and joy. You’ll find out why we lovingly refer to Notre Dame as Chez Nous, “our home.” Our students find their place here - and that sense of safety in the midst of our amazing New York City home helps girls build their sense of self, find their unique talents, and prepare for lives of service and fulfillment in college and beyond.

We invite you to learn more by exploring our website or coming to visit! Hospitality and kindness are our hallmarks - and we love welcoming everyone Chez Nous. Our doors are always open to you.

Gratefully,